There is no such thing as a typical Fast Streamer

I almost ruled myself out

When I graduated with a degree in English Language and Literature, I had no idea what to do next, and a lot of anxiety around that decision. When I was accepted onto the Digital Fast Stream, I had to think carefully whether it was the right fit for me.

Looking back, I realise I nearly ruled myself out because I had an idea in my head of what a "typical" Fast Streamer looked like. The truth is, there isn't one.

The Fast Stream is a Civil Service development programme that accelerates careers through a series of postings across different government departments. For me, the Digital Fast Stream has not only exposed me to exciting and varied opportunities, but it has also sharpened my focus on my future career. Whoever you are, read on to find out why it could do the same for you, even if you don’t have a technical background.

Jumping into the deep end

I don't usually deal well with change, so knowing I had only 12 months in each posting to assimilate into the team and wider department was incredibly daunting. I'd also never had a classic office job before. I had only worked in retail and community outreach, so I was often on the go. Sitting in an office and meeting my team on a laptop screen was a real change and a real challenge in some ways.

However, my team in the Department for Business, Innovation, Science and Trade (BIST) is a fantastic, welcoming group of people. I'll be the first to say I am a chronic oversharer. My cheery morning greetings certainly took some people by surprise, but I settled in quickly. The Digital, Data and Technology (DDaT) directorate functions fluidly. It's common for people to move between professions and teams, with an emphasis on Learning and Development.

This aligns well with the purpose of the Fast Stream, which emphasises professional and personal development. The Fast Stream journey is not just about depth of learning, but variety of exposure.

The Digital Fast Stream: who is it for?

Another reason to be daunted by joining the Digital Fast Stream was that I had no data experience coming into the role. Sure, I was keen to learn, but how far would that take me?

This is not uncommon in the Fast Stream. There were many people coming into the graduate scheme from a completely different career, like 2nd year Digital and Cyber Fast Streamer Collette Ovenseri:

'I initially didn't apply for the Fast Stream since I didn't think I'd be the right 'fit', but realised there isn't a typical type of Fast Streamer! I've met people from all walks of life and worked on amazing things such as LLM-powered tools to assist content designers, and showcased my work to senior civil servants. I had no prior experience in digital or technology (working in finance and law previously). You learn so much from the people around you and I definitely feel less daunted now as I approach my final year compared to when I first started. You don't need a computer science degree to do the Digital stream. As long as you have passion for public work and a willingness to learn, I highly recommend applying!'

The Fast Stream is often thought of as a graduate scheme, but the 2025 recruitment data tells a different story. Last year 35% of successful applicants were over 23, suggesting a significant number of people on the scheme did not join straight from their undergraduate degree.

Girish Joshi, a Data Analysist and another first-year Fast Streamer in my team, previously created hot sauces and worked as a cruise ship chef. He has shown me definitively that the Fast Stream is not just for graduates:

'Working in DBT's DDaT team as a Fast Streamer has shown me how much you can learn and achieve in a short time. Having the chance to work on real projects, with support from experienced and helpful colleagues, has helped me grow quickly and make a meaningful contribution from the start.'

A lot of people do also assume that it is just for people who have never worked in the Civil Service before. The scheme also accepts existing Civil Servants, for whom the degree requirements are waived. Those already working in the Civil Service may be surprised to hear that the Fast Stream still offers new experiences, opportunities and perspectives. Steve Corder, a Senior Product Manager, shares his experience.

'When I joined the Fast Stream, I was already 14 years into my Civil Service career. The Fast Stream opened up a door to get me into Digital, Data and Technology and I've not looked back. Along the way I've learned so much and made some brilliant connections. I would recommend the Fast Stream to any one already a Civil Servant and looking for a real challenge for themselves.'

You can make a difference as a Fast Streamer

Over the past year, I have not just contributed to my team but integrated into it. I've helped run the Data Challenge and worked on a wide variety of projects with stakeholders across government. Soon I will help welcome the next cohort of Fast Streamers at Base Camp. Andy Palmer, BIST's Senior Capability Manager says:

'There's no such thing as a typical Fast Streamer. The people who thrive are not defined by where they started, but by their curiosity, willingness to learn and commitment to public service.'

While it can be intimidating joining a programme like the Fast Stream, remember that the Civil Service benefits from our perspectives, just as much as we benefit from the experience. As Andy says, “we're stronger for the diversity of experiences Fast Streamers bring”.

Looking ahead

The Fast Stream doesn’t just teach digital skills, it builds flexibility and resilience. Fast Stream graduate and Senior Content Designer, Mei Mei Loh explains how that prepares Fast Streamers for future roles:

'Having experience in different roles and departments gave me the confidence to take on most things that are thrown at me in my permanent role at BIST. The Fast Stream has helped me define my working values and find the right place for me in the Civil Service. I couldn’t be happier!'

I'm not quite sure where the future will take me, but right now, I want to be fulfilled. I want a career where I am constantly adapting to new things, to be challenged on what I know and don't know, and to always keep learning. I've never been very good at standing still, and that's something the government doesn’t do either. I don't want to necessarily be the best there is, but someone who is always pushing for better. What better place for that than the Civil Service?

Is the Fast Stream right for you?

As October (and my next placement) approaches, I don't think I will ever be rid of the fear of the unknown. What I have learned from the Fast Stream, however, is that moving between teams and diving into unfamiliar environments gives you opportunities to grow.

If you are:

• curious about a career in digital
• seeking opportunities to learn and develop
• keen to make a difference and do meaningful work
• looking for new connections and challenges

Then my advice to you is don’t rule yourself out.

Explore the Digital scheme. Applications open in October, and hopefully we'll see you in DDaT next autumn!